Nebraska has been able to get by in its first three games settling for jumpers and perimeter baskets. That definitely won't be the case moving forward to the meat of the schedule, however, and Tim Miles knows it. Outside of maybe Dylan Talley, no other Husker has shown the consistent ability to put the ball on the floor and attack the basket. Even if they're not making shots doing it, NU has to find a way to draw fouls, get to the line and also tighten up defenses to open up better looks from the outside.

Keep Almeida involved2

Senior center Andre Almeida is coming off arguably his best game as a Husker in Sunday's win over Nebraska-Omaha, as he put up a season-high 19 points and tied a career high with seven rebounds. Miles has made it clear from the get-go that the Huskers need Almeida to be a force in the post, and his play against the Mavericks was certainly a very encouraging sign. Tulane has far more size in its front court than any team Nebraska has played thus far, so tonight will be the first real test to see how Almeida responds.

Will Shields play?3

Nebraska got great news on Tuesday when Miles announced that freshman wing Shavon Shields would practice without any limitations for the first time this season after injuring his shooting elbow prior to the first practice. Miles said Shields would be a game-time decision tonight, but if he can get on the floor he will provide NU with desperately needed depth, talent and versatility. Shields could play the 2, 3 or 4 if need be, and he'll immediately be one of the Huskers' better offensive weapons once he's ready to go.

"Coach (Ed) Conroy does a real nice job with them. I like their athleticism. They play with a motor and they compete, compete and compete. They are really active on the glass and have quick, long, athletic guys getting to the glass. I don't know if that translates to into huge numbers for them, but when I watched them, their activity level is really good on the glass. Their defensive pressure is really good and they disrupt you plenty.

Senior guard Dylan Talley on what the Huskers have learned through three games:

"I think the chemistry is well. (Sunday), things weren't going our way. Things were tough, but not once did anybody on the team put their head down. Not for any of the games so far did anybody put their head down, no complaining. We still are moving the ball and we work our tails off on defense. I learned that we're just a good cohesive unit. We're going to keep on working together and try to get better."